Student Guide to Travel Nursing

Have you been thinking about becoming a Travel Nurse, but aren't really sure how to start? Let the adventure begin! We've designed an easy step by step student guide to becoming a Travel Nurse to help you succeed in your traveling career.

Education - To become a Travel Nurse, you first must become a Registered Nurse. The first step is to enroll in an accredited program by the National League for Nursing Commission (NLNAC). Two main options for education:

2-3 year Associates of Science Nursing degree (ADN)

4 year Bachelor of Science Nursing degree (BSN)

Pass the NCLEX - This is the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Regardless of the type of degree you obtain, you will be required to take the NCLEX. Once you pass, you will be given the designation Registered Nurse (RN).

Get Experience - It's best to get at least two to three years clinical experience in your specialty before you start searching for a Travel Nurse position. This has become a standard requirement for travel companies, and will make you more valuable and desired Nurse. Some in demand specialties include: Operating Room (OR), Emergency Room (ER), Pediatrics, Oncology, and Labor and Delivery.

Find a Company - Once you have enough experience, you can find a recruiting company that specializes in Travel Nursing opportunities. From there, a recruiter will help you seek out and secure the assignments you want. They typical travel assignment is 13 weeks in duration.

Get Your Travel On - Time to pack! Many companies provide benefits like travel stipends, paid housing and health insurance. Your recruiter will be in contact with you periodically through your assignment making sure everything is going smoothly and setting you up for your next adventure!

Good Skills to Have

Adaptablitiy - Travel Nursing is all about new experiences and flexibility.

Confidence - Travel Nurses need to be poised and assertive, without being pushy or condescending.

Organization - A Travel Nurse's career is filled with paperwork, and staying organized can help avoid future headaches.

Friendliness - Just the nature of the job. Moving to new assignments and meeting new people requires excellent interpersonal skills.

Eagerness - Being an enthusiastic learner who enjoys learning new skills and nursing principles will be important.

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Infographics for Travel Nurses

If a picture's worth a thousand words, than these Travel Nurse infographics are a must-see!

Perfecting the Interview

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PBDS Testing Guide

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14 Questions to Ask Your Career Consultant

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Reasons to Become a Travel Nurse

Looking for a reason to travel? We've got a few for you!

Stability in Travel Nursing

Although Travel Nursing assignments are temporary, you can go the distance with a Travel Nursing career.

Student Guide to Travel Nursing

Prepare yourself for a Travel Nursing career while you're still in school!

Travel Nurse Orientation Guide

Travel Nurse Orientation 101: Learn how to quickly adjust to your new facility.

Be Social on Your Travel Nurse Assignment

Say hello to freedom and adventure as a Travel Nurse. Great things happen when you embrace the unexpected.

Travel Nursing Blogs

Blogs can be a great tool for the Travel Nurse. Find our top picks here.

Travel Nursing Books

Make the transition to a Travel Nursing career with our collection of links to Travel Nursing books and guides.

Travel Nursing Magazines

Become an industry insider with these links to our favorite Travel Nursing magazines.

Travel Nursing Shopping Guide

Find the right Travel Nurse company for you.

Travel Nursing Social Networks

Get social with these online communities and stay connected with other Travel Nurses while on assignment.

“During my Arizona assignment, I hiked to Havasupai Falls and camped at the Indian reservation at the bottom. From there, I hiked down to the Colorado River and back. In all, I covered 36 miles in three days, and it was the most beautiful, serene environment I have ever been in!”-adrienne o